Asahikawa, Japan Summary

Straddling the confluence of the Ishikari, Biei, Chubetsu and Ushibetsu rivers, sprawling ASAHIKAWA, 136km northeast of Sapporo, is Hokkaido’s second largest city. Although it has no compelling attractions, you may well find yourself passing through – and even having to stay – as this is an important railway junction, with lines heading from here north to Wakkanai and Abashiri. The city is also the main access point into the Daisetsu-zan National Park, some 40km east, and a free bus runs daily from outside the train station to Asahidake Onsen.